Headlines are almost always filled with tragic news daily, but there are still several recurring tragedies that the public don’t notice anymore. According to the Institute for Health Metric and Evaluation, over 12 million children died in 1990. The problem is, most of these deaths could’ve been prevented – and they are frequently caused by poverty and illness.

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From Tragedy…

Back in the year 1800, did you know that children barely made it to age five? The health circumstances during those ancestral days were so tragic that out of 10 newborns, four die before they even get to celebrate their fifth birthday. This situation is not only limited in just one country, but all over the world, including well-off nations.

…to Progress

Living and health conditions only began improving during the 20th century, which led to the huge decline in child mortality rate worldwide. However, there is still a stark gap between well-off (0.2% in Luxembourg) and worst off-countries (16% in Angola).

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Think about it. The media usually reports massive disasters, such as airplane crashes that happen rarely. If you compare the deaths of children to an aircraft carrying around 600 people, then the total number of child deaths equates to around 53 fatal aircraft-related accidents daily that has zero survivors.

Despite the decreased child mortality rate, the media take these real facts for granted. Fortunately, if history is any indication, advancements in health and technology, as well as, the work of non-profit groups will help kids live fuller lives in the years to come.